About Canonical

Canonical, the company behind Ubuntu Linux, is a leading international software company dedicated to advancing the open-source ecosystem. Ubuntu, recognized as the world's most popular free software platform, powers millions of desktops, servers, cloud instances, and IoT devices worldwide. Canonical works closely with the global open-source community, silicon vendors, OEMs, and ODMs to deliver secure, reliable, and efficient Linux solutions that help businesses reduce costs and enhance security.

With a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, Canonical fosters a workplace free from discrimination, valuing unique perspectives that drive innovation. As a remote-first company, Canonical enables engineers to thrive from anywhere, building tools that shape the future of Linux hardware certification and adoption across industries.

Role Overview

Canonical is seeking a talented Python Software Engineer to join the Ubuntu Hardware Certification Team. This role sits at the exciting intersection of hardware and software, where you'll develop cutting-edge test automation tools that ensure desktops, laptops, servers, and IoT devices work seamlessly with Ubuntu Core, Desktop, and Server. Visit ubuntu.com/certified to see the impact of our certification efforts.

Working remotely from EMEA time zones, you'll collaborate with international teams across the Americas and APAC. This position offers a unique opportunity to influence Linux adoption by creating scalable testing frameworks, designing hardware probing solutions, and automating certification processes. If you're passionate about Python, Linux, and hardware enablement, this role will let you push industry boundaries and deliver exceptional Ubuntu experiences to millions of users.

Key Responsibilities

Maintain and Enhance Test Automation Tools

Take ownership of Python-based tools like Checkbox, used by Canonical teams and industry partners for hardware validation. Develop new features to expand test coverage and improve reliability.

Innovate Remote Testing Solutions

Invent creative approaches to enable fully automated, remote hardware testing, scaling certification efforts for broader device compatibility.

Develop Software for Custom Testing Hardware

Build the software layer for in-house designed hardware that probes devices for graphics, hotplug, Bluetooth, and other critical functions, ensuring robust Ubuntu enablement.

Write Comprehensive Tests

Create functional and performance tests to validate hardware features, prevent regressions, and support ongoing device certification.

Global Collaboration

Participate in cross-functional meetings with silicon companies, OEMs, and Canonical teams, including 2-3 international trips per year to drive certification success.

Qualifications & Requirements

Required Skills

• Strong knowledge of Python programming language
• Quality-oriented, pragmatic approach to software design and implementation
• Interest in test automation methodologies
• Previous experience with Ubuntu or other Linux distributions
• Proven ability to excel in globally distributed teams

Desired Experience

• Passion for tinkering and maker culture
• Experience in agile development environments
• Hardware testing background, especially in IoT
• Familiarity with C programming

No degree required—Canonical values hands-on experience and contributions to open source over formal credentials.

Benefits & Perks

Canonical offers competitive compensation with an estimated salary range of €80,000–€120,000 annually for this EMEA-based role, reflecting tech sector rates with upside potential. Enjoy fully remote work, flexible hours aligned to EMEA time zones, and a fun, fast-paced team culture.

Additional perks include comprehensive learning and development opportunities, modern hardware setups, generous PTO, and contributions to high-impact open-source projects. Health benefits, parental leave, and wellness programs support work-life balance in our remote-first environment.

Career Growth

At Canonical, career progression is driven by impact. Excel in this role and advance to senior engineering positions, team leadership, or specialized hardware certification architecture. Regular performance reviews, mentorship from Ubuntu experts, and exposure to global projects accelerate your growth. Many engineers contribute to upstream Linux kernel development and speak at conferences like Ubuntu Summit.

Why Join Canonical

Join a company at the forefront of open source, where your Python expertise directly enhances Ubuntu's hardware ecosystem. Work on tools used by industry leaders, travel to collaborate with partners, and contribute to Linux's dominance in cloud, edge, and embedded systems. Canonical's remote-first culture emphasizes trust, autonomy, and innovation, making it an ideal home for self-motivated engineers passionate about quality Linux experiences.

Role FAQs

Is this role fully remote?

Yes, this is a home-based position in EMEA time zones with occasional international travel (2-3 times per year).

What tools will I work with?

Primarily Python-based tools like Checkbox, plus Linux environments, custom hardware interfaces, and open-source frameworks.

Do I need hardware experience?

Hardware familiarity is desired but not required; strong Python and Linux skills are essential, with a passion for tinkering as a plus.

How does Canonical support open source?

All certification tools are open source, and contributions benefit the broader Linux community while advancing your career.

What is the interview process?

Expect technical coding challenges, system design discussions, and team interviews focused on Python, Linux, and problem-solving.